DAVE WATSON has urged his Tranmere players to maintain the form they showed in defeating Cardiff yesterday as they turn their attention back to life in the second division.

DAVE WATSON has urged his Tranmere players to maintain the form they showed in defeating Cardiff yesterday as they turn their attention back to life in the second division.

Rovers' booked their place in the FA Cup fifth round draw with a comprehensive 3-1 victory over Cardiff which maintains the club's position as the competition's top scorers.

Now their attention turns to the league and the prospect of four games in the next 15 days to contend with.

Watson said: "I just hope we can maintain that level of performance in the league because if we can we will be higher up the table.

"It was an excellent performance from our lads. From the first whistle the tempo of the game was great and we maintained that over the 90 minutes.

"I thought we played some good football, taking into consideration the conditions, and the attitude of the players was first class.

"Cardiff caused us problems from the corner kicks because they had a couple of big players on the 'keeper. That led to their penalty, but what a great reaction from the players to get back in the game so quickly.

"We didn't give Cardiff a second on the ball, stopped them getting their passing going and we pressed them all over the pitch.

"That is why we got our good result."

It is the third consecutive season in which Tranmere have reached the fifth round.

Watson could not explain why the side plays so well in cup matches.

He added: "They just seem to enjoy the cup football. The league is our priority, but the FA Cup is not a competition you turn your back on.

"Financially it is good for the club, but for the players as well it is a big thing.